Crock Pot Angel Chicken)

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dinner idea, let me introduce you to my beloved Crock Pot Angel Chicken. This dish is the ultimate weeknight savior, combining juicy chicken breast with a creamy, Italian-inspired sauce that’s simply irresistible. It all comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker, making it perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings when you want something hearty without spending all day in the kitchen.

The best part? The tender chicken served over angel hair pasta creates a delightful meal that everyone will love. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can set this dish and forget about it while it cooks.
• Family-Friendly: This creamy chicken dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do its magic.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Italian dressing mix, and cream cheese creates an amazing flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a potluck dish, this recipe fits beautifully into any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delicious Crock Pot Angel Chicken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that bring out the best flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1-2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large chicken breasts)
• 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup (recommend low or no sodium if sensitive to salt – see notes below)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup chicken broth (recommend low or no sodium if sensitive to salt – see notes below)
• 1 (0.7 ounce) packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (or your favorite mix)
• 16 ounce box angel hair pasta
• Chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and/or grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless turkey breast or even tofu for a plant-based version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Change the pasta: Substitute angel hair with whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite spices for a little kick in flavor.

How to Make Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, adding 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. Searing the chicken adds wonderful depth of flavor and gives it a lovely golden color. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until beautifully browned, then remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Whisk until smooth—this will create a luscious base for your sauce! Next, add in cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and the Italian dressing mix. Whisk everything together until fully combined; this is where all those fantastic flavors meld.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot

Spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup. Place your seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the pot—this helps keep them moist as they cook. Pour that creamy sauce mixture over the top of the chicken; it will envelop every piece in deliciousness.

Step 4: Slow Cook Your Meal

Cover your crock pot and cook on low for about 3-4 hours. The key here is ensuring that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Don’t worry if you’re tempted to cook it longer; just know that while it will become super tender, it may also fall apart more easily.

Step 5: Cook Your Pasta

Shortly before serving, prepare your angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain when cooked and get ready to serve this delightful meal!

With these simple steps, you’ll have a heartwarming dish ready to enjoy with family or friends. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few tricks up your sleeve to make things even easier and tastier!

• Sear the Chicken First: Searing the chicken before adding it to the crock pot locks in flavor and moisture, giving your dish that extra layer of deliciousness.
• Use Low-Sodium Ingredients: If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium cream of chicken soup and broth. This keeps the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken. Every crock pot is different; some cook hotter or cooler than others, so it’s best to rely on a meat thermometer for perfect results.
• Add Veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, toss in some chopped veggies like bell peppers or spinach into the sauce before cooking. They’ll add color and health benefits!
• Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just pop it in the crock pot when you need it.

How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Serving Crock Pot Angel Chicken is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish deserves a beautiful display!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked Pepper: A dash of cracked black pepper enhances the flavors with a little kick, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: While optional, a light dusting of grated Parmesan adds richness and depth to every serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, garlic bread is a classic side that everyone loves. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare!
• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie adds color to your plate while providing fiber and vitamins. Simply steam or sauté with a bit of olive oil.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings freshness to balance out the richness of the angel chicken. The crunchy romaine and tangy dressing make for a great contrast.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a deliciously sweet flavor that complements the savory chicken beautifully. Toss them in olive oil and herbs before roasting for added taste.

Enjoy this delightful meal with loved ones, knowing that it’s not only simple to make but also packed with warmth and comfort!

Make Ahead and Storage

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes amazing but also stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great addition to your weekly menu.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label the container with the date and contents; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covering with a lid or microwave-safe wrap to retain moisture, heating until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe!

What is Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a creamy chicken dish cooked slowly in a crock pot, featuring tender chicken breasts paired with an Italian-inspired sauce. It’s served over angel hair pasta for a comforting meal.

How do you make Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

To make Crock Pot Angel Chicken, sear chicken breasts, mix them with cream cheese and soup ingredients, then cook in a crock pot until tender. Serve over freshly cooked angel hair pasta for an easy dinner.

Can I use other types of pasta with Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

Absolutely! While angel hair pasta pairs wonderfully with this dish, you can substitute it with any type of pasta you prefer—just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is there a vegetarian version of Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

While this recipe features chicken as its main ingredient, you can create a vegetarian version by substituting chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas. Adjust cooking times accordingly!

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is truly special—a perfect blend of creamy flavors and tender chicken that comes together effortlessly. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!